Rookie Tourney Game #2: Leafs vs. Penguins

by Mislav Jantoljak on September 11, 2011 in Game Day - 181 Comments

Photo Credit: mapleleafs.nhl.com

Here we are, it’s the second day of the rookie tourney. If the early signs are any indication, this is setting up to be a really good period for our prospects. Today’s opponent, the Pittsburgh Penguins, a team significantly older than the Hawks.

Usually, there are major roster changes game in and game out during these events and things will not be any different tonight. Removed from the roster are: Matt Frattin and Jesse Blacker, as well as Kenny Ryan and Jake Gardiner, who combined for three goals against Chicago on Saturday. Forwards Tyler Brenner and Kyle Neuber, along with defensemen Dave Cowan and Denny Urban, sat out the first contest and are gearing up for their first tourney start.

After sharing duties with Mark Owuya against the Blackhawks, Garret Sparks is scheduled to play the full 60 minutes. Sparks allowed both goals against Chicago, one coming only minutes after being sent to the crease cold at the midway point and the second a direct result of an odd-man rush. Be that as it may, we’re looking to see a more composed performance from the youngster tonight.

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